US6234439B1 - Illuminated cup holder assembly - Google Patents

Illuminated cup holder assembly Download PDF

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Publication number
US6234439B1
US6234439B1 US09/457,212 US45721299A US6234439B1 US 6234439 B1 US6234439 B1 US 6234439B1 US 45721299 A US45721299 A US 45721299A US 6234439 B1 US6234439 B1 US 6234439B1
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Prior art keywords
waveguide
cup holder
holder assembly
cup
illuminated
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US09/457,212
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Brad Steven Townsend
James Burr Anderson
George Robert Hulse
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Rebo Lighting and Electronics LLC
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Federal Mogul World Wide LLC
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First worldwide family litigation filed litigation https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=23815858&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=US6234439(B1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Priority to US09/457,212 priority Critical patent/US6234439B1/en
Assigned to FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE, INC. reassignment FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: ANDERSON, JAMES B., HULSE, GEORGE R., TOWNSEND, BRAD S.
Application filed by Federal Mogul World Wide LLC filed Critical Federal Mogul World Wide LLC
Assigned to WILMINGTON TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE reassignment WILMINGTON TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE, INC. (MI CORPORATION)
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Publication of US6234439B1 publication Critical patent/US6234439B1/en
Assigned to FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLDWIDE, INC. reassignment FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLDWIDE, INC. RELEASE OF SECURITY INTEREST RECORDED AT REEL/FRAME 011571/0001 AND 011466/0001 Assignors: WILMINGTON TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE
Assigned to CITIBANK, N.A. AS COLLATERAL TRUSTEE reassignment CITIBANK, N.A. AS COLLATERAL TRUSTEE SECURITY AGREEMENT Assignors: FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE, INC.
Assigned to CITIBANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL TRUSTEE reassignment CITIBANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL TRUSTEE SECURITY INTEREST Assignors: FEDERAL-MOGUL CHASSIS LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, FEDERAL-MOGUL CORPORATION, A DELAWARE CORPORATION, FEDERAL-MOGUL IGNITION COMPANY, A DELAWARE CORPORATION, FEDERAL-MOGUL POWERTRAIN, INC., A MICHIGAN CORPORATION, FEDERAL-MOGUL PRODUCTS, INC. , A MISSORI CORPORATION, FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE, INC., A MICHIGAN CORPORATION
Assigned to CITIBANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL TRUSTEE reassignment CITIBANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL TRUSTEE GRANT OF SECURITY INTEREST IN UNITED STATES PATENTS Assignors: FEDERAL-MOGUL CHASSIS LLC, FEDERAL-MOGUL IGNITION COMPANY, FEDERAL-MOGUL LLC, Federal-Mogul Motorparts Corporation, FEDERAL-MOGUL POWERTRAIN LLC, FEDERAL-MOGUL PRODUCTS, INC., FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE, INC.
Assigned to CITIBANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL TRUSTEE reassignment CITIBANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL TRUSTEE GRANT OF SECURITY INTEREST IN UNITED STATES PATENTS Assignors: FEDERAL-MOGUL CHASSIS LLC, FEDERAL-MOGUL IGNITION COMPANY, FEDERAL-MOGUL LLC, FEDERAL-MOGUL MOTORPARTS LLC, FEDERAL-MOGUL POWERTRAIN LLC, FEDERAL-MOGUL PRODUCTS, INC., FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE, LLC
Assigned to FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE LLC reassignment FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE LLC CHANGE OF NAME (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE, INC.
Assigned to FEDERAL-MOGUL CORPORATION, FEDERAL-MOGUL CHASSIS LLC, FEDERAL-MOGUL POWERTRAIN, INC., FEDERAL-MOGUL IGNITION COMPANY, FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE LLC (F/K/A/ FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE, INC.), FEDERAL-MOGUL POWERTRAIN LLC, Federal-Mogul, LLC, FEDERAL-MOGUL PRODUCTS, INC., FEDERAL-MOGUL MOTORPARTS LLC (F/K/A/ FEDERAL-MOGUL MOTORPARTS CORPORATION) reassignment FEDERAL-MOGUL CORPORATION RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CITIBANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL TRUSTEE AND AGENT
Assigned to REBO LIGHTING & ELECTRONICS, LLC reassignment REBO LIGHTING & ELECTRONICS, LLC ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLDWIDE LLC
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Assigned to FEDERAL-MOGUL POWERTRAIN LLC, FEDERAL-MOGUL MOTORPARTS LLC, AS SUCCESSOR TO FEDERAL-MOGUL MOTORPARTS CORPORATION, TENNECO INC., AS SUCCESSOR TO FEDERAL-MOGUL LLC, FEDERAL-MOGUL PRODUCTS US, LLC, AS SUCCESSOR TO FEDERAL-MOGUL PRODUCTS, INC., DRiV Automotive Inc., FEDERAL-MOGUL CHASSIS LLC, FEDERAL-MOGUL IGNITION, LLC, AS SUCCESSOR TO FEDERAL-MOGUL IGNITION COMPANY, FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE, INC., AS SUCCESSOR TO FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE LLC reassignment FEDERAL-MOGUL POWERTRAIN LLC RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
Assigned to DRiV Automotive Inc., TENNECO INC., AS SUCCESSOR TO FEDERAL-MOGUL LLC, FEDERAL-MOGUL CHASSIS LLC, FEDERAL-MOGUL POWERTRAIN LLC, FEDERAL-MOGUL MOTORPARTS LLC, AS SUCCESSOR TO FEDERAL-MOGUL MOTORPARTS CORPORATION, FEDERAL-MOGUL PRODUCTS US, LLC, AS SUCCESSOR TO FEDERAL-MOGUL PRODUCTS, INC., FEDERAL-MOGUL IGNITION, LLC, AS SUCCESSOR TO FEDERAL-MOGUL IGNITION COMPANY, FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE, INC., AS SUCCESSOR TO FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE LLC reassignment DRiV Automotive Inc. RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
Assigned to FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE LLC (FORMERLY FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE, INC.) reassignment FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE LLC (FORMERLY FEDERAL-MOGUL WORLD WIDE, INC.) RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CITIBANK, N.A.
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N3/00—Arrangements or adaptations of other passenger fittings, not otherwise provided for
    • B60N3/10—Arrangements or adaptations of other passenger fittings, not otherwise provided for of receptacles for food or beverages, e.g. refrigerated
    • B60N3/102—Arrangements or adaptations of other passenger fittings, not otherwise provided for of receptacles for food or beverages, e.g. refrigerated storable or foldable in a non-use position
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q3/00—Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors
    • B60Q3/20—Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors for lighting specific fittings of passenger or driving compartments; mounted on specific fittings of passenger or driving compartments
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q3/00—Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors
    • B60Q3/20—Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors for lighting specific fittings of passenger or driving compartments; mounted on specific fittings of passenger or driving compartments
    • B60Q3/225—Small compartments, e.g. glove compartments
    • B60Q3/229—Cup holders
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q3/00—Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors
    • B60Q3/60—Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors characterised by optical aspects
    • B60Q3/62—Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors characterised by optical aspects using light guides
    • B60Q3/64—Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors characterised by optical aspects using light guides for a single lighting device

Definitions

  • the subject invention relates to distributed lighting systems, and particularly distributed lighting systems involving the use of waveguides to illuminate portions of a vehicle interior.
  • Distributed lighting systems distribute light from some central location to one or more remote locations.
  • a distributed lighting system promises several advantages over conventional lighting techniques, including low power consumption, extended life, heat reduction where light is emitted, and increased design flexibility.
  • Waveguides provide one useful way to distribute light. Waveguides are lengths of plastic that propagate light through internal reflection. Vehicle makers have adapted waveguides for use in many locations in a vehicle. For example, several U.S. Pat. Nos. including 4,788,630 and 5,590,945 show waveguides that illuminate various parts of a vehicle interior. Until recently, it has been difficult to install waveguides into certain small areas such as cup holders. This is particularly true when the demands of mass production impact upon the design of the product. For example, parts makers constantly seek designs that are simpler, easier and cheaper to make, and more reliable.
  • the cup holder assembly generally includes an elongated waveguide, a cup holder bottom portion, and a cup holder top portion.
  • the cup holder bottom portion includes a base and a side wall extending up from the base to define a cup-receiving space.
  • the bottom portion further includes a waveguide support disposed above the base, with at least a portion of the waveguide disposed on the waveguide support.
  • the cup holder top portion is disposed over the bottom portion and the waveguide.
  • the top portion includes a shield extending over the waveguide.
  • This system splits the cup holder in two wherein the two pieces create a pocket to hold the waveguide in place. In other words, the top and bottom portions sandwich the waveguide into place. This design allows for simple, fast, and inexpensive installation of the waveguide into the cup holder space.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing one embodiment of the subject invention with the cup holder top portion removed from the cup holder bottom portion;
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective bottom view showing a second embodiment of the subject invention with the cup holder top portion removed from the cup holder bottom portion;
  • FIG. 3A is a section view taken along lines 3 A— 3 A in FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 3B is a section view taken along lines 3 B— 3 B of FIG. 2;
  • FIGS. 4A-C show different ways in which the branch ends of the waveguides can be configured to increase the amount of light that is directed downwardly into the cup holder.
  • an illuminated cup holder assembly is generally shown at 10 , 10 ′.
  • the cup holder assembly 10 , 10 ′ generally includes an elongated waveguide 12 , 12 ′, a cup holder bottom portion 14 , 14 ′, and a cup holder top portion 16 , 16 ′.
  • the cup holder bottom portion 14 , 14 ′ includes a base 18 , 18 ′ and a side wall 20 , 20 ′ extending up from the base to define a cup-receiving space.
  • the bottom portion 14 , 14 ′ further includes a waveguide support 22 , 22 ′ disposed above the base 18 , 18 ′, with at least a portion of the waveguide 12 , 12 ′ disposed on the waveguide support 22 , 22 ′.
  • the cup holder top portion 16 , 16 ′ is disposed over the bottom portion 14 , 14 ′ and the waveguide 12 , 12 ′.
  • the top portion 16 , 16 ′ includes a shield 24 , 24 ′ extending over the waveguide 12 , 12 ′.
  • This system 10 , 10 ′ splits the cup holder in two wherein the two pieces 14 , 14 ′ and 16 , 16 ′ create a pocket to hold the waveguide 12 , 12 ′ in place. In other words, the top and bottom portions 14 , 14 ′, 16 , 16 ′ sandwich the waveguide 12 , 12 ′ into place.
  • the waveguide support 22 is outside the cup-receiving space.
  • FIG. 1A shows a small shelf or ledge 22 formed on the outside of the side wall 20 of each space.
  • the waveguide support 22 ′ is disposed inside the cup receiving space, on the inside of the side wall 20 ′ of each space. This is shown in FIG. 1 B.
  • the support 22 ′ is a ledge molded into the side wall 20 ′ having an arcuate shape matching the inside contour of the side wall 20 ′.
  • the waveguide support 22 , 22 ′ extends under only a portion of the waveguide 12 , 12 ′. There is no need for the support 22 , 22 ′ to extend under large portions of the waveguide 12 , 12 ′ because the waveguide is not very heavy, and an extensive support might unduly interfere with light emitting from the waveguide.
  • the basic function of the shield 24 , 24 ′ is to direct the light downwardly into the cup-receiving space and not upwardly where it might cause irritating glare.
  • the interior of the shield 24 , 24 ′ includes a reflective surface or coating 26 , 26 ′ to maximize the light that is directed down and out into the cup-receiving space. Reflective surfaces 26 , 26 ′ on the shield 24 , 24 ′ may be formed by vapor deposition on plastic or other materials.
  • the shield 24 , 24 ′ defining at least one notch 28 ′ for emitting additional light from the waveguide 12 , 12 ′. This could be important in the FIG. 2 embodiment where the support 22 ′ extends under a portion of the waveguide 12 , 12 ′ and reduces some of the light directed downwardly into the cup-receiving space.
  • Each waveguide 12 , 12 ′ includes a base end disposed outside the cup-receiving space and a distal end that extends into the cup-receiving space.
  • the base end is disposed near a light source generally indicated at 30 , 30 ′—such as a light bulb.
  • the distal end includes at least one branch 32 , 32 ′ extending along the inside of the side wall 20 , 20 ′ and underneath the shield 24 , 24 ′ to cast illumination downwardly into the cup-receiving space.
  • the waveguide distal end includes two branches. This has the effect of increasing the light that is distributed into the cup-receiving space.
  • the waveguide 12 , 12 ′ is made from suitable material known to persons of ordinary skill in the art (e.g.
  • the waveguide 12 , 12 ′ has a generally rectangular cross-section, with the longer sides oriented in a manner that is generally vertical.
  • the waveguide may include stippling along the top to further increase light output in the downward direction.
  • the branches 32 , 32 ′ include chamfered ends 34 .
  • This arrangement has the effect of increasing the light that is directed downwardly into the cup-receiving space.
  • branches 32 , 32 ′ include twisted ends 36 as shown in FIG. 4 A.
  • This embodiment makes use of light emitting from the sides of the waveguides.
  • the branches 32 , 32 ′ include enlargements 38 on the ends. This also increases the amount of light distributed into the cup-receiving space.
  • the waveguide ( 12 , 12 ′) can be configured in order to increase the light output.
  • the waveguide ( 12 , 12 ′) can be chamfered on the top or the sides. Several appropriate designs are within the skill of persons in the art.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 involve waveguides 12 , 12 ′ that branch or split inside the cup holder space.
  • This arrangement is beneficial because it provides a desirable light pattern.
  • the branch 32 , 32 ′ may lead to a dark area inside the cup holder.
  • this can be overcome by disposing a web piece (not shown) of waveguide material in the location where the waveguide 12 , 12 ′ branches.
  • the web portion is thinner than the rest of the waveguide 12 , 12 ′ and provides additional illumination to the portion of the cup holder 10 that is directly beneath the location where the waveguide material branches.
  • the web piece extends across a portion of the gap formed by the branches 32 , 32 ′ to assume somewhat of a triangular shape.
  • a tab (not shown) in place of the web piece.
  • the tab assumes more of a rectangular shape than the web piece.
  • the tab may not extend as far as the web piece in the lateral direction, but it extends farther out (i.e. away from the branch), and it could angle or bend downwardly whereas the web piece does not do this.
  • the waveguide 12 , 12 ′ might have a loop or circular shape. The exact configuration will depend on the shape of the cup holder space.

Abstract

An illuminated cup holder assembly (10,10′) generally includes an elongated waveguide (12,12′), a cup holder bottom portion (14,14′), and a cup holder top portion (16,16′). The cup holder bottom portion (14,14′) includes a waveguide support (22,22′) disposed above a base (18,18′), with at least a portion of the waveguide (12,12′) disposed on the waveguide support. The cup holder top portion (16,16′) includes a shield (24,24′) extending over the waveguide (12,12′). This assembly (10,10′) splits the cup holder in two wherein the two pieces (14,14′ and 16,16′) create a pocket to hold the waveguide (12,12′) in place. In other words, the top and bottom portions (14,14′ and 16,16′) sandwich the waveguide (12,12′) into place.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD
The subject invention relates to distributed lighting systems, and particularly distributed lighting systems involving the use of waveguides to illuminate portions of a vehicle interior.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Distributed lighting systems distribute light from some central location to one or more remote locations. A distributed lighting system promises several advantages over conventional lighting techniques, including low power consumption, extended life, heat reduction where light is emitted, and increased design flexibility.
Waveguides provide one useful way to distribute light. Waveguides are lengths of plastic that propagate light through internal reflection. Vehicle makers have adapted waveguides for use in many locations in a vehicle. For example, several U.S. Pat. Nos. including 4,788,630 and 5,590,945 show waveguides that illuminate various parts of a vehicle interior. Until recently, it has been difficult to install waveguides into certain small areas such as cup holders. This is particularly true when the demands of mass production impact upon the design of the product. For example, parts makers constantly seek designs that are simpler, easier and cheaper to make, and more reliable.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION AND ADVANTAGES
The cup holder assembly generally includes an elongated waveguide, a cup holder bottom portion, and a cup holder top portion. The cup holder bottom portion includes a base and a side wall extending up from the base to define a cup-receiving space. The bottom portion further includes a waveguide support disposed above the base, with at least a portion of the waveguide disposed on the waveguide support. The cup holder top portion is disposed over the bottom portion and the waveguide. The top portion includes a shield extending over the waveguide.
This system splits the cup holder in two wherein the two pieces create a pocket to hold the waveguide in place. In other words, the top and bottom portions sandwich the waveguide into place. This design allows for simple, fast, and inexpensive installation of the waveguide into the cup holder space.
FIGURES IN THE DRAWINGS
Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing one embodiment of the subject invention with the cup holder top portion removed from the cup holder bottom portion;
FIG. 2 is a perspective bottom view showing a second embodiment of the subject invention with the cup holder top portion removed from the cup holder bottom portion;
FIG. 3A is a section view taken along lines 3A—3A in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3B is a section view taken along lines 3B—3B of FIG. 2; and
FIGS. 4A-C show different ways in which the branch ends of the waveguides can be configured to increase the amount of light that is directed downwardly into the cup holder.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring to the Figures wherein like numerals indicate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views, an illuminated cup holder assembly is generally shown at 10, 10′.
The cup holder assembly 10, 10′ generally includes an elongated waveguide 12,12′, a cup holder bottom portion 14,14′, and a cup holder top portion 16,16′. The cup holder bottom portion 14,14′ includes a base 18,18′ and a side wall 20, 20′ extending up from the base to define a cup-receiving space. The bottom portion 14,14′ further includes a waveguide support 22,22′ disposed above the base 18,18′, with at least a portion of the waveguide 12, 12′ disposed on the waveguide support 22, 22′. The cup holder top portion 16,16′ is disposed over the bottom portion 14, 14′ and the waveguide 12, 12′. The top portion 16, 16′ includes a shield 24, 24′ extending over the waveguide 12, 12′. This system 10,10′ splits the cup holder in two wherein the two pieces 14,14′ and 16,16′ create a pocket to hold the waveguide 12,12′ in place. In other words, the top and bottom portions 14,14′, 16,16′ sandwich the waveguide 12,12′ into place.
In one embodiment, the waveguide support 22 is outside the cup-receiving space. FIG. 1A shows a small shelf or ledge 22 formed on the outside of the side wall 20 of each space.
In another embodiment, the waveguide support 22′ is disposed inside the cup receiving space, on the inside of the side wall 20′ of each space. This is shown in FIG. 1B. Here the support 22′ is a ledge molded into the side wall 20′ having an arcuate shape matching the inside contour of the side wall 20′.
In either embodiment, the waveguide support 22,22′ extends under only a portion of the waveguide 12,12′. There is no need for the support 22,22′ to extend under large portions of the waveguide 12,12′ because the waveguide is not very heavy, and an extensive support might unduly interfere with light emitting from the waveguide.
The basic function of the shield 24,24′ is to direct the light downwardly into the cup-receiving space and not upwardly where it might cause irritating glare. In the preferred embodiments, the interior of the shield 24,24′ includes a reflective surface or coating 26,26′ to maximize the light that is directed down and out into the cup-receiving space. Reflective surfaces 26,26′ on the shield 24,24′ may be formed by vapor deposition on plastic or other materials.
In some embodiments it is beneficial to have the shield 24,24′ defining at least one notch 28′ for emitting additional light from the waveguide 12,12′. This could be important in the FIG. 2 embodiment where the support 22′ extends under a portion of the waveguide 12,12′ and reduces some of the light directed downwardly into the cup-receiving space.
Each waveguide 12,12′ includes a base end disposed outside the cup-receiving space and a distal end that extends into the cup-receiving space. The base end is disposed near a light source generally indicated at 30,30′—such as a light bulb. The distal end includes at least one branch 32,32′ extending along the inside of the side wall 20,20′ and underneath the shield 24,24′ to cast illumination downwardly into the cup-receiving space. Preferably, the waveguide distal end includes two branches. This has the effect of increasing the light that is distributed into the cup-receiving space. The waveguide 12,12′ is made from suitable material known to persons of ordinary skill in the art (e.g. acrylic); and is injection molded into the desired shape. The waveguide 12,12′ has a generally rectangular cross-section, with the longer sides oriented in a manner that is generally vertical. The waveguide may include stippling along the top to further increase light output in the downward direction.
According to one embodiment, shown in FIG. 4B, the branches 32, 32′ include chamfered ends 34. This arrangement has the effect of increasing the light that is directed downwardly into the cup-receiving space.
To achieve the same effect—i.e. increasing the amount of light directed downwardly—one may also adopt another embodiment wherein the branches 32,32′ include twisted ends 36 as shown in FIG. 4A. This embodiment makes use of light emitting from the sides of the waveguides.
In yet another embodiment, shown in FIG. 4C, the branches 32,32′ include enlargements 38 on the ends. This also increases the amount of light distributed into the cup-receiving space. Indeed, there are several other ways that the waveguide (12,12′) can be configured in order to increase the light output. For example, the waveguide (12,12′) can be chamfered on the top or the sides. Several appropriate designs are within the skill of persons in the art.
The embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 involve waveguides 12,12′ that branch or split inside the cup holder space. This arrangement is beneficial because it provides a desirable light pattern. However, there is a possibility that the branch 32,32′ may lead to a dark area inside the cup holder. As discussed and illustrated in co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 09/009,836, this can be overcome by disposing a web piece (not shown) of waveguide material in the location where the waveguide 12,12′ branches. The web portion is thinner than the rest of the waveguide 12,12′ and provides additional illumination to the portion of the cup holder 10 that is directly beneath the location where the waveguide material branches. The web piece extends across a portion of the gap formed by the branches 32,32′ to assume somewhat of a triangular shape.
Another way to avoid the dark area is to dispose a tab (not shown) in place of the web piece. The tab assumes more of a rectangular shape than the web piece. The tab may not extend as far as the web piece in the lateral direction, but it extends farther out (i.e. away from the branch), and it could angle or bend downwardly whereas the web piece does not do this.
There is yet another embodiment that might be appropriate for situations where the waveguide 12,12′ branches. In some of these situations, light travelling through the waveguide 12,12′ will split unequally between the two branches 32,32′. This is especially true when there is a primary branch and a shorter secondary branch. In order to balance the light in the two arms and provide for more uniform illumination in the cup holder, one could give the secondary branch a smaller cross-section (i.e. one that is thinner and narrower than the primary branch). This allows less light to enter the secondary branch and balances the light to the two branches.
There are other possible waveguide configurations—other than the branching configurations just discussed and shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the waveguide 12,12′ might have a loop or circular shape. The exact configuration will depend on the shape of the cup holder space.
The assembly 10 may or may not include some sort of compact light source 30. As shown in the figures, the light source 30, 30′ may include a housing 42,42′ having a reflective interior, and a bulb 40,40′ positioned within the housing. The light source 30, 30′ may also include a color filter (not shown) between the bulb 40,40′ and the waveguide 12,12′ to produce illumination of a desired color in the cup holder space. If the assembly 10 does not include the light source, the waveguide 12,12′ should extend to some other remote light source.
The invention has been described in an illustrative manner, and it is to be understood that the terminology which has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation.
Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. Therefore, it is to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described. Moreover, the reference numerals are merely for convenience and are not intended to be in any way limiting.

Claims (12)

We claim:
1. A cup holder assembly for use in a vehicle comprising:
an elongated waveguide;
a cup holder bottom portion including a base and a side wall extending up from the base to define a cup-receiving space, the bottom portion further including a waveguide support disposed above the base, with at least a portion of the waveguide disposed on the waveguide support;
a cup holder top portion disposed over the bottom portion and the waveguide, the top portion including a shield extending over the waveguide, whereby said waveguide is adapted to distribute light at said cup holder.
2. The illuminated cup holder assembly of claim 1 wherein the waveguide support is outside the cup-receiving space.
3. The illuminated cup holder assembly of claim 1 wherein the waveguide support is inside the cup receiving space.
4. The illuminated cup holder assembly of claim 3 wherein the waveguide support extends under only a portion of the waveguide.
5. The illuminated cup holder assembly of claim 1 wherein the interior of the shield is reflective.
6. The illuminated cup holder assembly of claim 1 wherein the shield defines at least one notch for emitting light from the waveguide.
7. The illuminated cup holder assembly of claim 1 wherein the waveguide includes a base end disposed outside the cup-receiving space and a distal end extending into the cup-receiving space, the distal end including at least one branch extending along the side wall and underneath the shield to cast illumination downwardly into the cup-receiving space.
8. The illuminated cup holder assembly of claim 7 wherein the waveguide has a generally rectangular cross-section.
9. The cup holder assembly of claim 8 wherein the waveguide distal end includes two branches.
10. The illuminated cup holder assembly of claim 9 wherein the branches include chamfered ends.
11. The illuminated cup holder assembly of claim 9 wherein the branches include twisted ends.
12. The illuminated cup holder assembly of claim 9 wherein the branches include enlarged ends.
US09/457,212 1999-12-08 1999-12-08 Illuminated cup holder assembly Expired - Lifetime US6234439B1 (en)

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Cited By (26)

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US6637709B1 (en) 2002-09-16 2003-10-28 Delphi Technologies, Inc. Self-adjustable cup holders
US20040218377A1 (en) * 2003-05-02 2004-11-04 Renfro Gregg A. Courtesy illumination disk for a cup holder
US20050195590A1 (en) * 2004-03-02 2005-09-08 Bigger George S. Illuminated container holder
US20070001613A1 (en) * 2005-06-10 2007-01-04 Ilight Technologies, Inc. Illumination device for simulating neon or similar lighting in the shape of a toroid
FR2894198A1 (en) * 2005-12-02 2007-06-08 Valeo Vision Sa Preset object e.g. beaker, lighting/signaling device for cigar lighter and cup holder assembly, has light guide with shape adapted to totally envelop contour of compartment and light emitting arrangements arranged on length of light guide
US20070247836A1 (en) * 2006-04-25 2007-10-25 Raffel Comfort Sciences, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US20080266853A1 (en) * 2007-04-27 2008-10-30 Tyco Electronics Canada Ltd. Lighting assembly
US20080265605A1 (en) * 2007-04-25 2008-10-30 Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc. Retractable cup holder assembly
WO2009106190A1 (en) * 2008-02-29 2009-09-03 Preh Gmbh Device for backlighting an interior component for a motor vehicle
US20090244917A1 (en) * 2008-03-27 2009-10-01 Intertec Systems, Llc Automotive interior component combining light and movement
US20100270928A1 (en) * 2009-04-22 2010-10-28 Mark Edward Dixon Bimodal illumination for vehicular storage compartment
US20100315826A1 (en) * 2009-06-12 2010-12-16 James Burr Anderson Distributed lighting assembly
US20110037287A1 (en) * 2009-08-17 2011-02-17 Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. Vehicle console assemblies with associated vehicle lighting systems for illuminating cup holder and storage bin assemblies
WO2011094728A1 (en) * 2010-02-01 2011-08-04 Federal-Mogul Ignition Company Illuminated vehicle cup holder assembly
US20110235354A1 (en) * 2010-03-29 2011-09-29 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Illuminated cup holder assembly
US20130105536A1 (en) * 2011-10-28 2013-05-02 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Flush mounted center console cup holder
US8585264B2 (en) 2010-02-11 2013-11-19 Federal-Mogul Ignition Company Illuminated monolithic cup holder assembly and method
US20150136932A1 (en) * 2013-11-21 2015-05-21 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Photoluminescent cupholder illumination
US9068708B2 (en) 2013-06-04 2015-06-30 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Illuminable vehicle beverage holder assembly
US9381843B2 (en) 2014-08-07 2016-07-05 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Modular cup holder assembly
US9796316B1 (en) * 2016-06-03 2017-10-24 GM Global Technology Operations LLC Adjustable-height cup holder assemblies with shallow cup receptacles for motor vehicles
EP3162627A4 (en) * 2014-06-24 2017-12-27 Nifco Inc. Illumination device
US10173604B2 (en) * 2016-08-24 2019-01-08 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Illuminated vehicle console
RU2683888C2 (en) * 2014-09-19 2019-04-02 ФОРД ГЛОУБАЛ ТЕКНОЛОДЖИЗ, ЭлЭлСи Illuminated cup holder assembly and cup holder (options)
US10308188B2 (en) * 2017-03-17 2019-06-04 Ford Global Technologies Llc Storage assembly and a center console in a vehicle
CN110194090A (en) * 2018-02-27 2019-09-03 丰田自动车株式会社 Cup holder in car room

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Cited By (60)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6637709B1 (en) 2002-09-16 2003-10-28 Delphi Technologies, Inc. Self-adjustable cup holders
US20040218377A1 (en) * 2003-05-02 2004-11-04 Renfro Gregg A. Courtesy illumination disk for a cup holder
US6896387B2 (en) * 2003-05-02 2005-05-24 Gregg A. Renfro Courtesy illumination disk for a cup holder
US20050195590A1 (en) * 2004-03-02 2005-09-08 Bigger George S. Illuminated container holder
US7232237B2 (en) * 2004-03-02 2007-06-19 Bigger George S Illuminated container holder
US20070001613A1 (en) * 2005-06-10 2007-01-04 Ilight Technologies, Inc. Illumination device for simulating neon or similar lighting in the shape of a toroid
US7229196B2 (en) 2005-06-10 2007-06-12 Ilight Technologies, Inc. Illumination device for simulating neon or similar lighting in the shape of a toroid
FR2894198A1 (en) * 2005-12-02 2007-06-08 Valeo Vision Sa Preset object e.g. beaker, lighting/signaling device for cigar lighter and cup holder assembly, has light guide with shape adapted to totally envelop contour of compartment and light emitting arrangements arranged on length of light guide
US10051968B2 (en) 2006-04-25 2018-08-21 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US11357119B1 (en) 2006-04-25 2022-06-07 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US9867471B2 (en) 2006-04-25 2018-01-16 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US20070247836A1 (en) * 2006-04-25 2007-10-25 Raffel Comfort Sciences, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US9254043B1 (en) 2006-04-25 2016-02-09 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US9192241B1 (en) 2006-04-25 2015-11-24 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US9089221B2 (en) 2006-04-25 2015-07-28 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US7766293B2 (en) 2006-04-25 2010-08-03 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US20180317659A1 (en) * 2006-04-25 2018-11-08 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US20100295340A1 (en) * 2006-04-25 2010-11-25 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US10299603B2 (en) 2006-04-25 2019-05-28 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US8973882B2 (en) 2006-04-25 2015-03-10 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US8714505B1 (en) 2006-04-25 2014-05-06 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US11778758B2 (en) 2006-04-25 2023-10-03 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US8657245B2 (en) 2006-04-25 2014-02-25 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US10537182B2 (en) 2006-04-25 2020-01-21 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US10806265B2 (en) 2006-04-25 2020-10-20 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US9585486B2 (en) 2006-04-25 2017-03-07 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US11089701B1 (en) 2006-04-25 2021-08-10 Raffel Systems, Llc Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements
US20080265605A1 (en) * 2007-04-25 2008-10-30 Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc. Retractable cup holder assembly
US7568749B2 (en) * 2007-04-25 2009-08-04 Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc. Retractable cup holder assembly
CN101668661B (en) * 2007-04-27 2012-07-25 泰科电子加拿大有限公司 Lighting assembly
WO2008133903A1 (en) * 2007-04-27 2008-11-06 Tyco Electronics Canada Ulc. Lighting assembly
US20080266853A1 (en) * 2007-04-27 2008-10-30 Tyco Electronics Canada Ltd. Lighting assembly
WO2009106190A1 (en) * 2008-02-29 2009-09-03 Preh Gmbh Device for backlighting an interior component for a motor vehicle
US20090244917A1 (en) * 2008-03-27 2009-10-01 Intertec Systems, Llc Automotive interior component combining light and movement
US8317378B2 (en) * 2009-04-22 2012-11-27 Magna Electronics, Inc. Bimodal illumination for vehicular storage compartment
US20100270928A1 (en) * 2009-04-22 2010-10-28 Mark Edward Dixon Bimodal illumination for vehicular storage compartment
US20100315826A1 (en) * 2009-06-12 2010-12-16 James Burr Anderson Distributed lighting assembly
US9243780B2 (en) 2009-06-12 2016-01-26 Federal Mogul Corporation Distributed lighting assembly
US8616740B2 (en) 2009-06-12 2013-12-31 Federal-Mogul Corporation Distributed lighting assembly
US20110037287A1 (en) * 2009-08-17 2011-02-17 Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. Vehicle console assemblies with associated vehicle lighting systems for illuminating cup holder and storage bin assemblies
US8162520B2 (en) * 2009-08-17 2012-04-24 Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing Vehicle console assemblies with cup holder and storage bin lighting assembly
WO2011094728A1 (en) * 2010-02-01 2011-08-04 Federal-Mogul Ignition Company Illuminated vehicle cup holder assembly
US8485680B2 (en) 2010-02-01 2013-07-16 Federal-Mogul Ignition Company Illuminated vehicle cup holder assembly
US8585264B2 (en) 2010-02-11 2013-11-19 Federal-Mogul Ignition Company Illuminated monolithic cup holder assembly and method
US20110235354A1 (en) * 2010-03-29 2011-09-29 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Illuminated cup holder assembly
US8353604B2 (en) 2010-03-29 2013-01-15 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Illuminated cup holder assembly
US20130105536A1 (en) * 2011-10-28 2013-05-02 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Flush mounted center console cup holder
US9068708B2 (en) 2013-06-04 2015-06-30 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Illuminable vehicle beverage holder assembly
US20150136932A1 (en) * 2013-11-21 2015-05-21 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Photoluminescent cupholder illumination
US9538874B2 (en) * 2013-11-21 2017-01-10 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Photoluminescent cupholder illumination
US10071682B2 (en) 2014-06-24 2018-09-11 Nifco Inc. Illumination device
EP3162627A4 (en) * 2014-06-24 2017-12-27 Nifco Inc. Illumination device
US9381843B2 (en) 2014-08-07 2016-07-05 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Modular cup holder assembly
RU2683888C2 (en) * 2014-09-19 2019-04-02 ФОРД ГЛОУБАЛ ТЕКНОЛОДЖИЗ, ЭлЭлСи Illuminated cup holder assembly and cup holder (options)
US9796316B1 (en) * 2016-06-03 2017-10-24 GM Global Technology Operations LLC Adjustable-height cup holder assemblies with shallow cup receptacles for motor vehicles
US10173604B2 (en) * 2016-08-24 2019-01-08 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Illuminated vehicle console
US10308188B2 (en) * 2017-03-17 2019-06-04 Ford Global Technologies Llc Storage assembly and a center console in a vehicle
CN110194090A (en) * 2018-02-27 2019-09-03 丰田自动车株式会社 Cup holder in car room
US10974636B2 (en) * 2018-02-27 2021-04-13 Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha In-cabin cup holder
CN110194090B (en) * 2018-02-27 2021-08-17 丰田自动车株式会社 Cup holder in vehicle

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